Oysters and crabs farmed in saline-alkali ponds in Xinjiang

The farms are also creating jobs.

Chen said local farmers have joined the initiative and added nearly 70 hectares of their own aquafarms. Chen's company has also employed over 500 local workers at its breeding bases, paying around 5,000 yuan ($748) a month plus free meals and accommodation.

One of them is Subinur Aimaier, a 25-year-old Uygur graduate of Xinjiang Vocational University, where she studied primary education. After graduating in 2025, she returned to her hometown and spent over six months leading a team of tutors at a local cram school. Looking for a change, she came across a recruitment notice from Chen's company.

Although she had no prior knowledge of aquaculture, Subinur is now attending a company training program in Urumqi, running from Oct 20 to 30. It covers script writing, on-camera presentation, and techniques for promoting local specialties, and prepares her to promote the company's aquatic products via livestream.

She said the job has introduced her to breeding technologies that were previously unavailable in Xinjiang. She is satisfied with the salary of 4000 to 5000 yuan a month, and the workplace is close to her home.

"I've gained independence and confidence," Subinur said. She added that, given the opportunity, she would like to start a business with Chen.

Qian Suling contributed to this story.